How to stretch your Christmas Jewelry Budget
1. Buying just under a Carat saves big bucks
Buying a diamond that is just under a one carat stone can save you as much as $1,000. The diameter of a 1 carat round is approximately 6.50mm. Buying a diamond that is 6.20mm in diameter (1/10 of a mm different), will typically weigh .95 carats (give or take a point). Going this route can save you money in the long run
2. Buy Freshwater Pearls
Buying Freshwater Pearls can help give you a big look for less money. Most stores carry a variety of Pearls: Freshwater, Japanese Akoya (saltwater), Tahitian and South Sea. Tahitian and South Sea pearls can some times be pricey, the same goes for akoya. Freshwater pearls are less expensive and you can get a larger look for less money.
3. Big Color stones
Many ladies prefer the look of larger rings, Pendant and earrings. This can be found and economically bought when buying color stones like Garnet, Blue Topaz, Citrine, Amethyst, Rose Quartz and Chocolate Quartz, just to name a few. These stones can run as low as $20 a carat. For example: a 10 carat chocolate Quartz can run $200, this is a Large stone that won't cost as arm and a leg
4. Buy Local
There is nothing wrong with buying online, most of us at Lou's Jewelry do the same. However, it's hard to haggle with a sales person when an item is hanging out in your online shopping cart. Sitting down in front of a sales person and hashing out details and getting the item down in your budget can help save you money and develops a future relationship- side note, having a relationship with your jeweler can also help you with future purchases
5. Try to buy Multiple Items in the same Store
Most mom and pop shops and even some online stores will give you a discount when you purchase multiple items at the same time. This can help stretch your budget dollars if you are buying for multiple people, like your mom AND your girlfriend.
